By Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has informed U.S. President Joe Biden of his decision to send a delegation to resume stalled negotiations for a hostage release deal with Hamas. This development, announced on Thursday, signals a potential breakthrough in the nearly nine-month-long Gaza conflict.
A source from the Israeli negotiating team, speaking anonymously, revealed that Hamas has put forward a revised proposal with “a very significant breakthrough,” presenting a “real chance of achieving agreement.” This marks a notable shift from previous instances where Israel deemed Hamas’ conditions unacceptable.
The Israeli delegation, to be led by the head of the Mossad intelligence agency, will engage with U.S., Qatari, and Egyptian mediators to advance the deal. Netanyahu is set to consult with his negotiating team and security cabinet to discuss the talks further.
The White House confirmed that Biden and Netanyahu discussed Hamas‘ response to possible deal terms during their phone call. Biden welcomed Netanyahu’s decision to re-engage in negotiations, while Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s commitment to achieving all its war objectives before ending the conflict.
The proposed deal, initially outlined by Biden in late May, could involve the release of about 120 hostages held in Gaza and a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave. A Palestinian official close to the mediation efforts noted that Hamas has shown flexibility on certain clauses, potentially allowing for a framework agreement if Israel approves.
However, political considerations within Israel could complicate the process. Some far-right partners in Netanyahu’s coalition have threatened to quit if the war ends before Hamas is destroyed, which could jeopardize Netanyahu’s premiership.
The Gaza Health Ministry reports that the Palestinian death toll has surpassed 38,000, with 87,445 wounded since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led gunmen killed 1,200 people in southern Israel and took about 250 hostages.
As negotiations resume, Palestinians in Gaza cautiously hope for an end to the war. Meanwhile, Israeli military operations continue, with recent strikes reported in Gaza City and Khan Younis.
This potential diplomatic breakthrough comes at a critical juncture in the conflict, offering a glimmer of hope for de-escalation and the safe return of hostages. The international community watches closely as these renewed negotiations unfold, potentially shaping the future of the region.
